Has the hybrid revolution stalled?

As the highest-volume and most famous gas/electric hybrid, Toyota Motors' Prius sedan sets the tone for the hybrid market. So what does it mean that its American sales are down 3% this year? Are buyers suddenly less fuel-conscious? Have they stopped liking the car's looks? More likely, the demise of a $3,000 tax credit is to blame. Hybrids are simply not the deals they once were.